Ian Templeman – Wellbeing Story

To say that Ian Templeman loves the game of rugby league is an understatement. And although that can be said of many people, he has proved this through his actions. After spending over 40 years involved in the game as a player and then as an administrator, Ian had to step back from his duties and retire from all roles in 2011 due to ill health. Ian’s involvement as a player stretched across many areas of Wide Bay. He began in 1960 at 16 years of age in Gayndah and played A grade the same year. At 17 he represented Wide Bay and fondly remembers having to travel many miles to Wondai to train. It was just what you did back then. He also played for Avondale and Yandaran over the course of his playing career.

Ian’s move to administration seemed a natural progression. He began in Bundaberg and went on to serve Bundaberg junior clubs Brothers, Brothers Saints and Western Suburbs. When involved with Brothers, Ian held the positions of president, secretary and treasurer at various times. When he moved to Wests, he held the roles of president, secretary and even managed the under-14 team.

Father time catches up with us all and Ian lost the use of legs, making it difficult to get around. The Men of League Foundation was more than happy to assist Ian by donating a mobility scooter which has given Ian back his independence. He is no longer bedridden for long periods of time as he once was as the scooter allows him to move around more freely, enabling him to spend time with his grandchildren in the yard and get out to the local shopping centre for a coffee without having to rely on transport services.

It seems fitting that after decades of service to our wonderful game, that the Bundaberg Committee has been able to give back to this outstanding and committed gentlemen.